The theme of God's "Spirit" is developed throughout the Bible. Ultimately, the Spirit was revealed through Jesus and sent out into the lives of his followers to bring about the new creation.
Key Points:
- God’s “spirit” is the biblical authors’ way of talking about God’s personal presence. The Hebrew for “spirit” is “ruach” (רוּחַ) which can have many meanings, including “breath,” “wind,” or “spirit”. Genesis 1:2
- In the Bible, God’s spirit enables people to do God’s will. Throughout the Old Testament, God’s Spirit empowers a group of people called “prophets,” who view what happens in history from God’s perspective. Exodus 31:1-5
- Jesus breathed on his followers and they received the Holy Spirit. Soon after, the Spirit powerfully came over all his disciples.The new act of God’s Spirit empowers the believer to live a life that honors God. Ezekiel 36:26-27, John 20:20-22
Talk About It
- What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- What do you think is the significance of the word “spirit” in Hebrew having such a broad range of meaning? How might this help us think about God’s Spirit?
- How does this topic expand your understanding of the doctrine of the Trinity?
- Read Ephesians 1:13. Why is the Holy Spirit so important for Christians living today?
- Read John 20:20-22. Why did Jesus breathe on his disciples just before giving them the Holy Spirit?
- Write a personal action step based on this conversation.
